Switchboard LGBT

Switchboard – the LGBT+ helpline – a place for calm words when you need them most.
We’re here to help you with whatever you want to talk about. Nothing is off limits, and we understand how anxious you might feel before you pick up the phone.

At Switchboard we provide an information, support and referral service for lesbians, gay men and bisexual and trans people – and anyone considering issues around their sexuality and/or gender identity.

We listen to all kinds of calls, and we take every one seriously. Whatever made you call, we’re glad you did – and we want to help you.

Here are some of the things people might call us for:

Information about support groups for someone who thinks they are trans or nonbinary.
Support for a man who has been a victim of homophobic abuse, but has previously had a bad experience going to the police.
Contact details for an LGBT-friendly therapist.
Support for a lesbian teenager thrown out of her home by her parents, and who needs somewhere to stay.
Information on how to get to local gay pubs for someone with mobility issues.
Times and places for a local bisexual social group.
Listening to some of the concerns a mother has about her child who is trans.
Every call is unique, and Switchboard prides itself on responding to the changing needs of our communities by providing a service that’s continually evolving and relevant.

Our helpline number is 0300 330 0630 (calls to this number will cost you the same as calls to 01 and 02 numbers and are included in any call allowances you may have either on a mobile or a landline).

We are open between 10am and 10pm every day of the week, 365 days of the year.

Who will answer the call?

There are about 160 trained telephone volunteers at Switchboard who all identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.